Planning Guide for
Military Families

Joining Optima Academy Online (OAO)

Military families face frequent moves, new duty stations, and changing school systems. OAO provides stability, continuity, and flexibility in education through our K–11 (growing into 12th grade) virtual reality model. This guide outlines steps to ensure a smooth transition.

1. Pre-Enrollment Planning

Request Records Early
Contact your current school to request transcripts, test scores, IEP/504 plans, and immunization records.

Compare Credits/Courses
Share current course schedules with OAO enrollment staff to ensure proper placement.

Technology Check
Review OAO’s tech requirements (headset use begins in grade 4). Confirm internet bandwidth supports VR learning.

2. Enrollment Process

Enrollment Cut-Off Dates
Be aware of monthly onboarding windows to align start dates with family transitions.

Team Communication
Work closely with our enrollment staff for personalized guidance.

Onboarding Scheduling
Choose evening/weekend onboarding if daytime hours conflict with military responsibilities.

3. Transition Support for Students

Orientation Week
Families get a welcome packet and evening orientation invite. Students receive logins and complete the iReady screener.

IT Help
IT help is available Monday-Thursday from 7:30-3:00.

Multiple Children
Families with students in different grade levels receive tailored support to understand each schedule and learning flow.

4. Parent & Family Support

Parent Portal (Genius + Canvas)
Gain access to daily schedules, assignments, and grades.

Flexible Communication
Teachers respond via Canvas, email, or phone, accommodating time zone differences.

Counseling Services
Access school counselors for academic planning and emotional support during moves.

5. Academic Continuity

Consistent Curriculum
No matter where you move, your child keeps the same teachers and peers through OAO.

Global Perspective
Students connect with peers across the country, experiencing a consistent community.

Credit Transfer
OAO’s team supports documentation for smooth re-entry if transitioning back to a local school.

6. Ongoing Partnership

Military-Aware Staff
Teachers understand the challenges of deployments, moves, and flexible schedules.

Communication During Deployments
Parents can set up additional guardians in the system to stay informed.

Extracurriculars & Clubs
Opportunities for connection regardless of location.

Next Step

Schedule A Consult

Families can schedule a 1:1 Transition Consultation with our staff to review schedules, tech setup, and academic placement before enrolling.

Email our Lieutenant Curby Graham to schedule a consult: cgraham@optimaed.com

Ready to Apply?

Click → Submit your application today and take the first step toward enrollment.

We’d love for you to join our next → Parent Information Meeting (PIM.) It’s a virtual call where you can hear directly from our school team. Each session includes a short presentation followed by Q&A.

For Grades K–9

Planning Guide for Military Families